Gaudí's first works were designed in the style of gothic and traditional Spanish architectural modes, but he soon developed his own distinct sculptural style. French architect Eugene Viollet-le-Duc, who promoted an evolved form of gothic architecture, proved a major influence on Gaudí. But the student surpassed the master architect and contrived highly original designs -- irregular and fantastically intricate. Some of his greatest works, most notably La Sagrada Família, have an almost hallucinatory power

I have to admit that I was impressed by Gaudi's masterpieces while sightseeing Barcelona. Even Barcelona's pavement tiles were designed by Gaudi! Incredible talent..